Paying tribute to friends he had lost, the presenter also recalled one of his most memorable experiences, adding: "I got divorced. Coming in to do the show that day, the day of a break-up, that is an experience.

"So too is doing a show when you have fallen head-over-heels in love," he said of meeting his second wife Amelia Gatte. "I have to say it will be great to see more of Amelia. Some compensation I guess for seeing less of you."

Matthew added: "I've had thousands of messages since word of my departure got out, and your stories have been incredibly moving," while also thanking his guests and those he has worked with.

A number of stars have since paid tribute to the presenter:

You will be so sadly missed, Matthew! Loved being an occasional guest on your show. Jeremy has big boots to fill but I'm sure he will be fine. Enjoy your life, my friend x https://t.co/rpYObbhG8b

@5WrightStuff@Matthew_Wright Thank you for the debates, the issues and the laughs. I declared this a guilty pleasure in an interview once but the guilt didn't last long. Loved being on every show I was ever on. Wish I'd stolen a mug now. Bon voyage.

"Matthew Wright has built a brilliant show that's a big part of the British TV landscape," he said. "I'm delighted to be carrying on all the conversations he has started, with all the guests he's made me feel I know over the years.